At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy depot, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional service delivery.
- Company: Join a dynamic logistics company focused on growth and efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career advancement in a fast-paced industry.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in logistics while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in logistics management and strong people skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location: Exeter
Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 Dependant on Experience and Qualifications
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Role
Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Depot Manager to take full responsibility for the operational, financial, and compliance performance of their busy Exeter depot. This is a key leadership role where you'll be responsible for driving efficiency, improving profitability, and ensuring exceptional service delivery across all transport and logistics operations. You'll play a pivotal role in developing systems, leading teams, and maintaining compliance standards, while also supporting business growth through strong client relationships and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily collection and delivery operations, ensuring KPIs and SLAs are consistently achieved
- Manage P&L, budgets, forecasting, and overall depot expenditure
- Drive operational efficiency through improved systems, processes, and procedures
- Lead, coach, and develop depot staff, ensuring high performance and engagement
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, transport regulations, and legal requirements
- Maintain and manage the O-Licence for the Exeter depot
- Oversee driver compliance including tachograph downloads and infringement management
- Control maintenance schedules for vehicles, FLTs, and equipment
- Manage agency staff, subcontractors, and owner drivers effectively
- Build and maintain strong client relationships, including site visits and service reviews
- Monitor and control operational costs including purchasing, uniforms, training, and equipment
- Support accident/incident investigations and promote a strong safety culture
- Report regularly to senior management on performance, risks, and improvements
About You
- Proven experience in a Depot Manager / Transport Manager / Operations Manager role within logistics
- Strong knowledge of distribution networks and transport operations
- Solid understanding of Health & Safety and compliance within logistics
- Experience managing budgets, costs, and P&L
- Confident leader with excellent people management and coaching skills
- Highly organised with strong planning and problem-solving abilities
- Able to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels
- IT literate with experience using transport/logistics systems
- Good geographical knowledge of the South West
What We're Looking For
- Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-focused approach
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
- Positive, professional, and motivated attitude
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism
Interested? Apply now with your CV to be considered for this exciting opportunity, or get in touch for a confidential discussion.
Depot Manager employer: HP4 Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
HP4 Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Depot Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the logistics and transport industry. Attend local events or join online forums where you can meet people who might know about job openings or can give you insider tips.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their KPIs and SLAs, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine when you get that interview!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've led teams and improved operational efficiency in past roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact and how you can bring that to the Exeter depot.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Depot Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your previous roles in logistics and management, and don’t forget to showcase your achievements in driving efficiency and compliance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Depot Manager role. Mention specific examples of how you've improved operational performance or built strong client relationships in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Depot Manager, you'll be leading teams, so make sure to highlight your people management experience. Talk about how you've coached and developed staff in previous roles, and how you’ve fostered a positive work environment.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s quick and easy, and we can’t wait to see your application come through!
How to prepare for a job interview at HP4 Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Depot Manager, you'll be managing budgets and P&L, so brush up on your financial knowledge. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed costs in previous roles and any specific KPIs you've achieved.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong people management abilities. Think of examples where you've led a team to success, coached staff, or improved performance. Be ready to share how you motivate and engage your team.
✨Understand Compliance Inside Out
Health & Safety and compliance are crucial in logistics. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past positions. This will show your commitment to safety and legal standards.
✨Build Rapport with Clients
Strong client relationships are key for this role. Prepare to talk about how you've built and maintained client relationships in the past. Share specific examples of site visits or service reviews that led to improved satisfaction.